She had heard he had a bad childhood; abusive, ugly, just too hard. After hearing the stories, she assumed he had some scars, but never asked. It wasn't something people talked about. When they started dating, she decided if he ever wanted to share that part of his past with her, she would listen. But she would never push.

The first time they made love, she knew right away why he didn't talk about it. They had never gone far with their relationship, mostly snuggling on the couch, some kissing during boring movies. But when they walked into his apartment one night and began kissing like their lives depended on it, they knew there was no turning back. And when Jess pulled Adam's shirt over his head, she could see every bit of his past. She saw the pain in his eyes as she looked at the irregular skin, but before he could try to explain the situation or tell her it was okay to leave if she wanted, she kissed him again. She reminded him that she loved him forever.

In the morning when they lay tangled together, wrapped up in just a sheet, she traced her fingers up and down over his skin, her face occasionally turning to a frown when she stroked over a large scar.

"I moved out when I was sixteen," Adam started softly. And Jess listened.